Fire Island was for centuries was inhabited by Native Americans before the arrival of Europeans but no one knows for sure how long. During the 17th century as in most areas of the original thirteen colonies the natives were dealt out of their land but it wasn’t until the late 18th century before there as any substantial development. During the later half of the 19th century as in many parts of the Eastern US hotels and bungalows were built for people who wanted to escape the brutal heat of New York City during the summer. The island was badly devastated during the Great Hurricane of 1938. however after the hurricane large numbers of gay men made it into a retreat and by the 1950’s the island became one of the prominent gay enclaves in the country. During this period bridges to island were finally built and the western half of the island became a state park with designated beaches and bathhouses. However due to limited space only residents are allowed to drive into town and you either have to walk at least a mile from the beach areas or take the frequent ferry service during the summer months.
Posted by Don Mosher Photography on 2024-04-03 04:56:37
Tagged: , Landscape , Travel
